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Monday, March 31, 2014

On Friday we took off early for the Fargo Metropolis and the Red River Prophecy Conference. Not well attended, like conferences here in the cities, but interesting speakers and much to learn.

We had two reasons to go northwards. My son had his ROTC awards ball on Saturday evening too. It was a boon to be able to attend the prophecy conference at least partially as well.

For the first time in four years we were able to attend the church my son has attended during his time at college.

Impressions.

Today we are back at school, resting, and getting things in order. We are sorting thoughts. As with any prophecy conference, all of the information must synthesize in the head and process. Information overload is par for the course.

Let me make an attempt at description.

First of all, I'd like to give a nod to those who think prophecy people are fear-mongers. The themes of this conference were not exactly uplifting. One speaker in particular seemed to delight in "shock value" presentations. I'm not saying that his information was bad, but he liked to leave us on the down themes of future developments.

Yes. Things are looking bad for the future.

Some topics we heard about were famines and death, Christian persecution and earthquakes.

I loved it when the preacher condemned Monsanto. It's heartening to see the heartland reject the evils of GMO's and their effect on the world. Famine certainly would be easy to bring about with the monopoly seed companies have on the food supply. One person's decision could bring down a major food shortage these days. That's power, and I don't think it's very benign.

I appreciated the talks on worldviews. It's important to have the CORRECT worldview these days. Don't trust yourself to come up with it either. It comes from something outside of man. It comes from God, and His Word. READ THE BIBLE to get your worldview, and trust God to impart the correct ideas. He will.

One of the most interesting sessions was on the new age movement of festivals such as "Burning Man," "Tomorrowland," and "Wickerman."

These music and yoga gatherings attract up to half a million participants. They go on for several days, and they all bring about inner transformation. This transformation seems incredibly positive and affirming, but it is in fact in the spirit of this world, demonic. People claim to be changed forever. The earth is the focus, and self actualization a goal. "We are the world...A brighter day....let's start living..."

One of the events common in these festivals is the burning of a large effigy. This is actually an ancient pagan ritual.

Rev. 9 (NKJ) Then the fifth angel sounded: And I saw a star fallen from heaven to the earth. To him was given the key to the bottomless pit. 2 And
he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit like the
smoke of a great furnace. So the sun and the air were darkened because
of the smoke of the pit.

The effigy is a picture of the beast, coming up out of the burning pit.

Fascinating, and a warning. Don't worship the beast! Yet that is exactly what the participants at these festivals do. They recognize the power of the devil as the greatest power.

Christians should have absolutely nothing to do with it, yet it appears many who claim to be Christian follow along blindly into these festivals, all in the spirit of unity.

Unity is exactly what the anti-Christ wants. Unity against God.

Remember, Jesus came to divide. He says in Matthew 10:

35 For
I have come to ‘set a man against his father, a daughter against her
mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’;

God will bring His kingdom together. Man is unable to do so. God will bring destruction, God will bring judgement. God will do His work. Anything man does to unify or unite is not of God.

God. That is, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. (Not Allah, not any other god) Yahweh has the power to bring His kingdom into being. We, his followers, need not worry on this score. We are called to love and serve Him and watch His plan unfold. We, the people who believe in Jesus and are born of the Spirit, need not strive for world unity! We follow the Holy Spirit, and His power and strength.One thing I love about prophecy is the hope it gives. God fulfills prophecy that is from Him. His prophecies are true.That brings me to the sermon we heard at Salem Ev. Free church yesterday morning. The first point the pastor made was that God's prophecies are fulfilled. They were fulfilled when Jesus was on the cross. (The piercings, the stripes, the wounds) We can infer that all of His prophecies in Scripture will be fulfilled.To those of us who believe, the evidence of God's power and fulfillment of promise is unavoidable. We are overwhelmed by the statistical improbability of life, of DNA, of creation, of prophecy fulfilled. It's just too amazing to deny!Yes, things look bleak. The world is headed down a path of deception toward a devilish scheme predicted in Bible prophecy.But we, God's own beloved followers, have much hope. We know our Savior comes for us, and we have eternity with Him, the true God of the Universe.

Gladness.

So much more to write... but I must get back to getting order here at home.

One more observation: people who like prophecy conferences don't appear to be the "movers and shakers" of the world. In classic "last shall be first" principle, those attending the conference were the weak and needy. God has such a sense of humor and love! It is truly the weak who will see His power, and God gets the glory. There in Nordic territory (Moorhead is a Norwegian stronghold) were the weak, the maimed, the downtrodden. I'm not saying one can't be beautiful to attend prophecy conferences, but you might stick out!

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Everyone who is a believer should take comfort in the verses I posted recently in Daniel 12.

I felt I should share them as I had a discussion with a young believer who feels a sense of dread about the end times. Certainly there are so many people dying from extreme persecution for holding to the Christian faith.

I'm seeing things on Facebook and Pinterest that are horribly disturbing. We must pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being martyred.

Here Daniel promises us that when the wrath of God falls on the earth (the time of tribulation) those names written in the book will be safe.

We are not in that time yet. We are seeing the persecution of the saints, but not yet the wrath of God.

Noah saw the wrath of God too.

However silly and off Hollywood is Biblically, the truth remains. The movie about Noah is a story of divine destruction. God's wrath and punishment of sin.

Get in the ark! Are we experiencing last warnings? Don't risk eternity by waiting to see. Come to Christ now.

Saturday, March 22, 2014

Daniel 12:1-5 KJV
And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. [2] And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. [3] And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. [4] But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. [5] Then I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood other two, the one on this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side of the bank of the river.

Friday, March 21, 2014

Tonight we were at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis for a Vocal Essence concert featuring the works of John Rutter.

The first half was a collection of shorter tunes. The second was his "Requiem."

Beautifully done!

I think he was supposed to be at this concert, but due to a health issue he was unable to make it. Had he been here he couldn't have been more pleased. The soprano soloist did a perfect job. Her voice was light and strong. I liked her version better than the recorded one we have since several years back.

I had the joy of hearing the "Requiem" back in the mid '90's at Northwestern College, Orange City. It was the first time I'd heard it, and I fell in love with the "Pie Jesu."

John Rutter is someone I've prayed for for several years now. Ever since I'd heard of his sadness/bitterness at the loss of his son, and subsequent turn to agnosticism, I've felt such sorrow for his soul.

That one who does not believe can communicate such spirit-soaring music, worshipful and lovely, is beyond my comprehension.

I think there are others that have been given a gift of music, even one to praise God, yet find true faith impossible. This makes little sense to me, but it mustn't.

Today we watched the movie, "God isn't Dead."

It's about atheism, agnosticism, and ultimately bitterness against God. It's dry in a couple of places, but only because it has such heady themes. If you go, stay with it. There are some very profound truths well conveyed. It's an excellent one for discussion!

I always find it interesting to see things in a day come together in theme-like precision. As I listened to the gorgeous music I couldn't help but think of John Rutter, his beliefs, the philosophical film we saw, and a burden for those who are lost.

Last weekend we, Cherie and I, loved the 4 Bach concerts at 4 different venues in St. Paul, all close to or by Summit Avenue. The organs were magnificent, the talented musicians (violin, piano, cello, harpsichord, besides organ were played) gifted us with the joy of Bach.

The evening before that we were pleased to see our son sing with the Concordia Chapel Choir at a church near St. Paul. Michael Culloton masterfully conducted the 111-voice choir through gorgeous works----including Aaron Copeland's "Genesis." Wow.

I'm so glad my son got to be a part of that. Look for some of the concert recordings to turn up on You Tube, as the videographer routinely puts up selections from such concerts. He is also a member of our Northern Lights Chorale.

As you can see, our musical choices lately have been stellar. We are spoiled here in the Twin Cities!

Add to these events friends visiting from out-of-town (they didn't sleep here this time) and Margaret's spring-break trip to Arizona, the usual stuff like school, swimming and choir, doctor's appointments and the piano tuned...

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

I just love it when science "discovers" creation to be a real event. When it proves God's handiwork, and shows His glory.

When we talk about the Universe I can only stand in total incomprehension at the vastness of God Himself. He is so much more than any of us could ever conceive, and yet He stoops to explain Himself to us.

He gives us a glimpse into Himself, and it is wondrous.

If only everyone could see His love and mercy, His grace and divinity.

He is not vindictive, not cruel. He is not imaginary.

He is just and righteous, powerful and loving.

Look at the Big Bang, what it means for science. Look at the Creator, who did it.

Friday, March 14, 2014

We are facing the last weeks of astronomical winter, and we are crazy for sunshine and warmth. Minnesotans know that we can expect a May blizzard without too much surprise, but we can't help but rejoice in the warming trends that lead through our Aprils.

The ides of March are upon us, and the gray of the snowbanks, mud of the yards, and icy breezes make this time of year unattractive.

I am happy to watch travelogues and knit or crochet, do puzzles and read books, waiting for true Spring.

This spring we have some interesting prophetic occurrences. Certainly you've heard of the "Blood Moons" to come this year and next. If you haven't, please Google "Blood Moons" or Mark Biltz. He has written about the significance of certain lunar eclipses and how they relate to Israel. Please be informed. It is too fascinating to miss anything which the Bible talks about regarding prophetic signs.

Another difficult topic, but one that everyone should be informed about is the "Black Awakening." There are several references online to refer to, but it has to do with increased Satanic activity worldwide. It's good to know what is happening, and interpret it within the limits of Scripture.

I find prophecy fascinating, and watching things come into fruition is just icing on the cake.

We need not fear, but we MUST trust the Lord.

Ray Comfort has come out with another winner: "Noah."

Pay the $20 and support his ministry, download the 28 minute film, and watch this little gem about prophecy.

Find it at "Way of the Master."

Exciting times. Have you repented of your sins, put your trust in Jesus Christ? Have you decided in your heart that the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is the one true God?

Believe.

Time is so short. Actually, I'm surprised we're still here. The Christians in the Middle East are being slaughtered as I write this, and more each day. They are seeing Jesus.

Our Lord has his purpose in every thing. Whether it is a downfall, an illness, a loss----Our God is able to make it into something worthwhile, helpful, and eternally beneficial.

That is a promise none of us can afford to miss.

Tonight my son sings in his chapel choir tour. We are SO excited to see him. Tomorrow are four Bach organ concerts. Cherie and I are having a mom/gal day of concerts and lunch out! Ed is pursuing his credentials to be a lifeguard. Otherwise he'd be with us at the concerts!

Spaghetti dinner here on Sunday, another concert in the late afternoon, and we'll be back around to a new (and busy) week...

Friday, March 7, 2014

"Malla Moe" by Nilson and Sheetz
"The Way to Wellness" by LaVerne Bjorklund
"Blood Brothers" by Elia Chacour
"The Funeral Dress" by Gilmore
"Night Birds" by Maltmann
"The Maker's Diet" by Rubin
"Charles Spurgeon" by Lawson
"John Calvin" by Lawson
"A Foreign Devil in China" by Pollock
"More Than a Carpenter" by Josh Mcdowell
"The Answers Book 4" by Ken Ham
"I go to America" by Joy K. Lintelman
"Swedish Roots," by Lovain
"Eggs in the Coffee, Sheep in the Corn," by Douglas
"Creation in Christ," George MacDonald
"Life Interrupted," by Shirer
and of course,"Trim Healthy Mama" by Barrett and Allison

Okay, I admit it. I am a part of the DQ Blizzard Fan Club. I have encouraged all my family members to sign up too. You know why? You get a few BOGO Blizzard coupons throughout the year. I have a weakness for Dairy Queen.

I told my kids a funny memory, and now they don't let me forget it either. When I was a child it was a rare treat to go get a "Dairy Queen."

YOU know what I mean, right? One of those delicious creamy vanilla ice milk cones----on a hot summer evening...

My dad took my brothers and me out one evening. I think I was still young enough to be held in my dad's arms.

"I want a Dairy Queen," I told the nice server behind the counter. She looked blank for a second. My brothers laughed mercilessly at my silliness!

Dad knew what I wanted! Actually, he always referred to those delicious little cones as "Dairy Queens."

When my husband and I lived in Iowa for a season, it happened to be the year Alan Keyes ran for president in the Republican party.

For those of you non-poli people, Iowa's caucuses are legendary for picking the front-runner in the presidential race.

In our small caucus I spoke up enthusiastically for my favorite candidate: Alan Keyes.

It was to my joy that our caucus voted for him, the only caucus in that area that did. Alan Keyes remains one of my favorite politicians. I admire his grace, his intellect, and his desire for good.

I still wish him to be president!

Today this article appears on World Net Daily. I think the wisdom it shares regarding the rights of parents is absolutely necessary to keep in mind, even in light of a "victory." It is an article by Alan Keyes regarding the Romeike family from Germany.

For those of us who have home-schooled, and seen tremendous results, (our children's progress far out-paces the public school student's progress) this is a back handed-threat to our right to choose what is best for our natural families.

I am thankful that my children are already mostly through the school age years. I am deeply concerned for the young families that may not have the option to do what they think best for their children.

Just yesterday at the YMCA an older gentleman confronted Ed.

"No school today?"

"I'm home-schooled," said Ed.

"So you did a full day's school already?" (It was noon)

"This is our P.E. here," explained Ed.

"Well, at least you appear to be pretty social..." -----

Typical. Sometimes I just want to scream at those kinds of people, but I know that is sin. I wish I could say, "Yes, my oldest child got a full-ride scholarship to a private LA college, my next two children are on the dean's list at the University, and my Ed has achieved the equivalence of an entire high school education by the time he was 13. My youngest has yet to show her amazing abilities in music and art..."

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

I hope you enjoy the minutes you spend catching up here at Corgi Hollows, and the thoughts expressed.

Family updates: My eldest son and daughter-in-law returned from a belated honeymoon on the north shore of Lake Superior, right during one of the coldest Februaries ever! They had fun hiking up to frozen waterfalls, and through ice caves on the great lake.

My second son and his wife are settled in to their convenient and sunny home. He has his orders to depart for his future military installation next January, so it's nice they have a whole year to be "just married." School and work keep them busy.

Margaret has a bad case of the winter blues, or blahs, or cabin fever, as we like to say. She is disciplined in getting to the train or bus every morning, which ferries her down to the University. Working as a lifeguard at the YMCA rounds out her schedule. Soon she will depart for a few days in Arizona, visiting my cousin for some sunshine and warmth. (Thank you, dear cuz!)

Oh, how we need warmth!!!!

Ed is slowly changing from one medication to another. All seems well for now. His desire for schoolwork is coming back, and his organ skills are definitely improving! We are pleased with his progress. (He's playing Bach right now downstairs)

Cherie will race her last Grand Prix car at the Awana Grand Prix tonight. Can you tell she likes horses as much as her mother does?

After years and years of making these little cars for Boy Scouts AND Awana, five children.....we are ready to close up shop! Sometimes two or three cars each year....I keep finding them around the house in obscure drawers and boxes.

The Pets: Kiwi and Predicate are fat and happy. Blackberry lives for "daddy" to come home where she runs happily and crazily around in the snow while he shovels and sweeps. Misty, the Corgi, plows through this deep snow with great forbearance, trying to keep up with Blackberry and keeping watch on her domain. She is Corgi Police of this house. The fish are swimming happily in the big punch bowl in the bathroom. They seem to be surviving the winter in their close quarters. The pond will be a welcome abode for them in just a couple more months. (AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHAA!!!!!!) Spring, come soon!

Please check it out. I've been trying it out for the last 3 weeks since my book came, and I am only impressed.

I think it would be better called "Trim Healthy Manna!"

---Manna from heaven it is, especially for the ones who have found everything else wanting in a lifestyle diet.

Chocolate cake for breakfast??????

Oh yeah!

On Sunday I was having lunch with a friend. She cares for her elderly mother in her home. I asked her how it was going and she said something that so interested me.

"It's easier when she's not feeling well, for then I can really help her, and do whatever needs to be done for her. It isn't as easy, though, when she feels well, for then she tells me how to do things."

I laughed with my godly friend. Isn't that just the truth?

NONE of us likes to be told how to do things! It's so much better when we just copy what we like: how people live, how they work, how they manage their schedules and homes.

It's so much better when we can see truth, and then claim it for our own!

I'm sorry for all the times I've sounded Preachy on this blog. I always want to find the base of truth, and operate from there. I love to "help" anyone who needs encouragement, and being a mom has made me ultra sensitive to helping my own children navigate their paths through life.

But at the core of all of this, no-one, especially my children, wants to be TOLD. We all must discover.

I think that is the basis for what IBLP and Bill Gothard are going through right now. Hopefully he will be justly dealt with, and he will respond with godly grace. He's told many people how to do a lot of things, and he's being held to account. Good thing. Again, no one wants to be TOLD. There are so many people who are reacting to what he has told.

I have a few friends who are deeply resentful toward Gothard, and have been for many years. I always wondered what was so terribly upsetting about his ministry. Now we are about to find out. Perhaps.

I have only high regard for what he "told" me through his books, materials, personal interaction and the seminars I attended, but that is not to dismiss his own accountability. Happy day when all is open and resolved. There can only be good that comes from our deepest trials when we love Christ, and believe, AND repent. It's promised.

There is a verse in Scripture that alludes to a listening heart, and it has to do with Wisdom. If you want to gain wisdom you must listen. Don't be so quick to speak! How much I should obey that thought! Too often we speak before we think, crash ahead blindly before we see the distance we are traveling...

Forethought. It is a good thing.

But listening is also good. One must not always obey, but one should listen.

And maybe there will be learning. Learning that comes from a quiet and wise heart. Learning that listens for precious truths and life-giving advice.

I shouldn't resent being told things.

Let's listen for God's leading, and thank Him for His Word, the ultimate Voice of God.